Can I request a refund of the issue fee after paying it?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Generally, once you’ve paid the issue fee, requesting a refund is not straightforward. The MPEP 1306 states: “The issue fee and any publication fee that have been paid will not be refunded after the application has been placed in the printing cycle.” However, there are some exceptions: If you file a petition to withdraw the application from issue under 37 CFR 1.313(b) , you may be eligible for a refund. If the application is withdrawn from issue before it enters the printing cycle, a refund may be possible. In cases of USPTO error, a refund might be considered. It’s important to act quickly if you believe you’re entitled to a refund, as the window for eligible refunds is limited once the application enters the printing process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Petition to Withdraw Application from Issue Not Effective After Patent Issued MPEP 1306.01 Petition to Defer Must Be Filed Before Issue Fee Payment MPEP 1306.01 Issue Fee and Publication Fee Not Extensible MPEP 1306 Required Issue Fee and Publication Fee Must Be Paid as Specified in Notice of Allowance MPEP 1306 Required Previously Paid Issue Fee Can Be Reapplied MPEP 1306 Issue Fee Due After Withdrawal and RCE MPEP 1306 Issue Fee Reduced for Small and Micro Entities MPEP 1306 Three-Month Issue Fee Due After Allowance MPEP 1306 Required Publication Fee Due at Issue MPEP 1306 Required Issue Fee Not Reflecting Previous Payment MPEP 1306 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can the deadline for paying the issue fee be extended? What is the process for deferring issuance of a patent? How do I request simultaneous issuance of patents? What happens if I pay an incorrect issue fee amount? What is the...